Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Perimeter of a Circle at grade 8

This is a complex concept in math at early stages like grade 8 (12-13 year-old), however I managed to introduce it so nicely with a cut paper. I took 40 mm as the radius and asked the learners to draw a circle using the pair of compasses. They managed to draw it without any problems. I then asked them to try and measure the length of the circumference. They really struggled and I came in to assist with a cut piece of paper.

They had to measure the arc of one side and then multiply by two. They were so happy to see that it is actually possible. But I said, you know with math we need some generalizations and formulas, hence I introduced them to the idea of C = pi multiply by diameter.

They were amazed! I think hands on experience in mathematics makes sense to the young minds. I would appreciate comments.

1 comment:

  1. Very true Thami - I think the more practical we can make maths the better. It is much easier to learn from concrete experience than from abstract theories.

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